Lasting beauty can be achieved through
purchasing a quality floor covering and providing proper on-going
maintenance.

Natural PropertiesFading: Cork contains organic pigments. Just
like other wood products, cork will fade and should never be exposed
directly to sunlight. Where possible, use drapes or other systems to
protect your floor from excessive light. Cork will yellow when fading. Joints: Wood floor systems expand and
contract in response to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. By
controlling the environment, maintaining an adequate temperature and
relative humidity around 50%, you will minimize the visible effects of the
normal contraction and expansion of your floor.

Protection
You may protect your cork floor by taking the following precautions:

To help eliminate fine
particles of dirt/grit that act like sandpaper and will scratch any
floor, vacuum or sweep as needed.

Spills should be wiped up immediately.

Use walk-off mats at entrance doors
and in front of kitchen sink. Avoid rubber backed or other
non-ventilated mats or rugs.

In the kitchen, use a rug in front of
the working areas such as in front of the stove and sink to prevent
local premature wear.

Install proper protectors under “feet”
of furniture.

Caster wheeled chairs should have wide
casters. A protective mat should be used under office chairs.

Maintain a minimum humidity of 50% in
the room. If necessary, use a humidifier.

Periodically check floor for signs of
wear.

Weight distribution is a key factor in
preventing indentation.

Maintenance
Sweep or vacuum floor frequently in order to avoid build up of abrasive
particles. Use only cleaners specified for use on pre-finished hardwood
available from your local retailer or home center. WET MAINTENANCE IS
ENTIRELY FORBIDDEN!

Most cork decorative patterns are made of
thin veneer laminated to a cork base. Failure to maintain the finish could
result in irreparable damage.

The longevity of the finish is relative to
traffic intensity and quality of floor care. When the floor starts to show
a traffic pattern and signs of wear it is time to renew the finish. It is
the responsibility of the owner to judge when the floor needs recoating.
For cork floors surfaced with acrylic finish a new coat of polyurethane
will make the floor look new again and prolong its lifespan. GreenFloors
recommends that a flooring professional be employed for this process and
that strict adherence to the finish manufacturer’s guidelines be observed.